From the Prevention Action Alliance’s Know! newsletters. View all of their newsletters here.

It’s January; the start of a new year, new habits, and new resolutions. That’s easier said than done for many people, adults and teens alike. All the hustle and bustle can worsen the symptoms of those who already suffer from anxiety and depression. And for others, the holidays can...

This article was written by a CSUCI student.

There aren’t too many issues that collect the attention of so many as marijuana. This has been a heavily debated topic regarding its legalization for several decades, and appears to have almost no end in sight. Those that advocate for legalization claim that it has various health benefits such as pain relief and relief from traumatic disorders...

Did you know? Answer these questions about vaping.

Let’s test your knowledge:

1. True or False: It is just water vapor in vapes.
2. True or False: The liquid in vapes does not contain any harmful chemicals.
3. True or False: Vaping helps people quit smoking tobacco.

To take our full Marijuana Vape Quiz, click here. 

What is vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the...

This post was written by a CSUCI student. 

This topic is probably the most baffling one for me. I grew up in a very strict, traditional household where even talking about alcohol was a sore topic, let alone having my parents actually provide it for me. My parents would have the occasional beer or glass of wine once every few weeks. Their lives did not revolve around drinking, which meant...

We recently had the pleasure of working with students from CSUCI’s Service Learning program. Some of those students conducted surveys about attitudes around marijuana, vaping, and alcohol in both Ventura and Los Angeles. Here are the questions and responses. 

• How do you feel about marijuana? 

• How do you feel about vaping?

• How do you feel about alcohol? 

• (For...

This post was written by a senior at CSUCI.

I’d like to say I’ve had a good amount of control in most aspects of my life. I play sports, I have friends and family who love me, I have a job and a car and pets – pretty much everything anyone could ever want. 

The one thing I was lacking (and still struggle with) throughout adolescence is a good sense of self esteem and...

What are prescription drugs?

Also known as:

Opioids: Happy Pills, Hillbilly Heroin, OC, Oxy, Oxycotton, Percs, and Vikes

Depressants: A-minus, Barbs, Candy, Downers, Phennies, Reds, Red Birds, Seeping Pills, Tooies, Tranks, Yellow Jackets, Yellows, and Zombie Pills

Stimulants: Bennies, Black Beauties, Hearts, Roses, Skippy, The Smart Drug, Speed, and Vitamin R, and Uppers

Prescription drugs are...

Written by a Senior at CSUCI. 

As fun and exciting as the seasonal activities can be, many people experience what is called seasonal depression. This is a real thing, and actually very common, with over 3 million diagnoses per year. Also known as ‘Winter depression’ or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), some symptoms may include, “oversleeping, appetite changes,...

From pedestrian deaths to drunk driving, tricks and treats and spooky parties, Halloween can be a fun but dangerous time for teens. Here are some tips for both parents and teens for how to have a safe and fun Halloween!

Tips for Parents

1. Behavior – Halloween is a fun night but occasionally teenagers can behave differently at night, and with their friends. Discuss appropriate behavior in...

By Amanda Mathis, a local college student

Mental health and well-being plays an important role in one’s life, as well as how we deal with stressors and trauma that can negatively impact us. There are all kinds of possible variations when it comes to how individuals manage painful or difficult emotions, and what they do to regain a better mindset when times get rough. The more coping...

By Amanda Mathis, a local college student

As I open my eyes from the darkness of night, I see light that shines through my curtain. Each day presents itself with beams of warmth and illumination. I get out of bed and get ready for a new day filled with experiences and sensation. I walk to the kitchen and am greeted with kind smiles and eyes. To know others care for me and love me in ways I will...

E-cigarettes have exploded in popularity in the past couple of years, causing an epidemic of youth use across the country. Despite claims of how “safe” they are by those selling them, they’re putting people into emergency rooms and hospitals across the nation. As of August 30th, one person has died and more than 200 cases of vaping-related lung illnesses have been reported,...